Known as the "Venice of the North" this Dutch town is characterized by narrow canals crossed by boats
Also nicknamed the Green Venice, Giethoorn is a small masterpiece in the province of Overijssel, where the bright green grassy fields, the long water channels and the thatched roof houses make it the perfect place for those who want to get away from the chaos of the city.
Populated by 2.600 inhabitants, this Dutch village is located in natural park De Wieden and was founded in the 13th century by the sect of the Flagellants who were fleeing religious persecution. Here there are no roads, apart from a cycle path, and all transport takes place by water on the various canals crossed by 176 bridges of wood surrounded by greenery.
During the years, Giethoorn it has become a famous tourist destination for all those who want to spend a relaxing weekend, away from the frenzy of the city. You can get around comfortably on foot, by bike or by renting the typical boat, similar to a gondola, to get lost among the various canals and enjoy the peace of this small village in the Netherlands.
What to see in Gethoorn, the city without roads
Absolutely not to be missed, the Old Town. A place so scenic that it seems unreal, especially if you come from a big city like Amsterdam. Then the museums, like the 't Olde Maat Uus, an old restored farm where documents and photographs from the last hundred years of the village are kept and exhibited.
If you are passionate about crystals and minerals, don't miss a visit to the geological museum The Old Earth which also has a small shop attached. For sea lovers there is the Gloris Maris, a museum dedicated to the sea and shells, and for those with a weakness for vintage means of transport, theHistomobil it is a must-see thanks to its display of antique cars, wagons and bicycles.
Gondola Ride Festival
If you're planning a visit to Giethoorn in August, you might catch the Gondelvaart Festival, a competition between picturesquely dressed gondolas gliding along the village's canals.
The surroundings of Giethoorn
Around the Venice of the North, there are many interesting towns: the ancient fishing village Vollenhove, the pretty Meppel with its summer festivals and streets full of shops and the fortified city of Steenwijk.
What is the climate like in Gieethorn?
THEinverno a Giethoorn it is cold but not particularly harsh while the summers are cool and with temperatures never too high, in fact they fluctuate between 11°C and 21°C.
The rains are mainly concentrated in the months of November and December.
How to get to Giethoorn from Amsterdam
Amsterdam is located 120 km from the “Venice of the Netherlands”. From the airport you can rent a car and take the A6 to Almere, Lelystad and Emmeloord. After Emmeloord you continue towards Zwolle and exit at Steenwijk-Giethoorn.
Another very interesting solution is to arrive with a Ryanair flight to Groningen which is about 60 kilometers from Giethoorn. You can also take advantage of this alternative to visit the town of Groningen, the little Amsterdam of the North, and the surrounding area which is among the most characteristic of the north of Netherlands.
If you want to get to this small Dutch village by urban transport you can reach the nearest train station, Steenwijk and then take a bus which takes 17 minutes.
The alternative to the bus is the taxi e the trip costs around 30 euros.
